Devotional - Feb. 12, 2025
Scripture: 1 Kings 17:1 Now Elijah the Tishbite, from Tishbe in Gilead, said to Ahab, “As the Lord, the God of Israel, lives, whom I serve, there will be neither dew nor rain in the next few years except at my word.”
We've mentioned Elijah several times in church and a devotional on his life and calling may be worth doing. The name itself means YHWH is God or My God is YHWH. He is from Tishbe. Have you heard of Tishbe from your other Biblical studies? No, neither has anyone else. It is only used in reference to Elijah and the theological significance of its name does not render much either. It's basically a small town over there somewhere. Yet, it produces one of the great prophets of the Old Testament. God seems to like taking that which is insignificant and using it in very significant ways (Micah 5:2). But, before you start thinking size is the issue, let me add a few more things. Size is not the issue, it is what is within that matters. Jesus spoke about a mustard seed (Matthew 17: 20-21), very small in size, becoming a large bush fit to house all kinds of birds (Matthew 13: 31-32). The power lies within God's design. If Elijah knew one thing, Elijah knew that YHWH was God and no other. And, YHWH was the God of Israel. The fact that he learned this growing up in a smalltown out in the middle of nowhere, notwithstanding. He learned it all the same, but not as information. It was his faith. He believed it. We will see that his life takes many turns and is confusing at times. His faith is tested. But in the end, his resolve to claim his faith holds true and God is with him. In our lifetime, our faith can be reduced from being the size of a mountain to a mustard seed and back several times. Circumstances and situations can test and trouble our souls vehemently. But, let us hold true to our faith knowing God is holding on to us (2 Timothy 2:13 and Hebrews 13:5 (Deut 31:8)).
Pray with me.., LORD Jesus, You are our God. There are no others. Thank You, for all Your faithfulness to us, even during our wayward times. Hear us as we ask Your blessing upon our loved ones and our church. Bless them we pray in accordance with their needs. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen
God's peace,
Pastor Brian
